Community hospitals across the county have introduced new visiting times for the benefit of patients and visitors, following successful trials throughout the summer.

Visiting hours at Ross and Leominster Community Hospitals have been changed in line with Bromyard Community Hospital to 3pm to 5pm, and 7pm to 8pm, seven days a week, to provide patients with quieter rest periods and meal times, and more privacy during visits.

The change has been brought about following feedback from patients and visitors and has been successfully trialled at Ross and Leominster Community Hospitals during the last few months.Jan Elliot, Sister Ross Community Hospital at Wye Valley NHS Trust, said: "Our patients, visitors and staff are pleased with the new visiting hours, which are now consistent across our community hospitals, and enable patients to spend more quality time with their family and friends".

"It also means that patient medication rounds are not interrupted and doctors are able to see patients outside of visiting hours".

Sarah Holliehead, Sister Leominster Community Hospital, added: "The trial of the new visiting hours has been welcomed by everyone and we are already seeing the benefits for our patients and staff".To find out more information about the services offered at the community hospitals visit http://www.wyevalley.nhs.uk">www.wyevalley.nhs.uk

For more stories in full please see this week's Ross Gazette.